Italy is a popular destination for British tourists, and it’s not hard to see why. Italy offers something for everyone with its rich history, stunning landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant culture. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 holiday destinations in Italy for British holidaymakers, along with how to get there from the UK and what to see and do once you’ve arrived. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Italian adventure!
Rome: The Eternal City
How to Get There from the UK: Various airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offer direct flights from London to Rome. The flight duration is around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What to See and Do: Rome, the historic capital of Italy, is a must-visit destination for British tourists. This ancient city is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring architecture, including the iconic Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Don’t miss the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City.
Venice: The City of Canals
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Venice are available with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours.
What to See and Do: Venice, a city built on water, is a romantic and enchanting destination for British holidaymakers. Explore the winding canals by Gondola or Vaporetto, and marvel at the beautiful architecture of Piazza San Marco and St. Mark’s Basilica. Visit the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for a taste of Venice’s rich history and artistic heritage. Don’t forget to take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello for an authentic Venetian experience.
Florence: The Birthplace of the Renaissance
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Florence are available with airlines such as British Airways and Vueling. The flight duration is around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
What to See and Do: Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is a top destination for British tourists who appreciate art and history. The city is home to the renowned Uffizi Gallery, which houses masterpieces by famous artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Visit the magnificent Florence Cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Vecchio for a glimpse of the city’s rich architectural heritage. Take a day trip to the picturesque Tuscan countryside to explore charming towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.
Amalfi Coast: A Mediterranean Paradise
How to Get There from the UK: Fly into Naples International Airport with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours and 45 minutes. From Naples, the Amalfi Coast can be reached by train, bus, or car.
What to See and Do: The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtakingly beautiful destination for British holidaymakers seeking a Mediterranean escape. Explore picturesque towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each boasting stunning views, vibrant gardens, and charming streets lined with pastel-coloured houses. Hike the Path of the Gods, a scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the coast, and visit the historic ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum for a fascinating insight into ancient Roman life.
Lake Como: A Luxurious Retreat
How to Get There from the UK: Fly into Milan Malpensa Airport with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours. From Milan, Lake Como can be reached by train or car.
What to See and Do: Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, is a luxurious destination for British tourists seeking relaxation and natural beauty. Stay in elegant lakeside villas or boutique hotels, and explore the charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Take a boat tour of the lake to admire the stunning villas and gardens, and visit the historic Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta for a taste of Italian grandeur.
Sicily: A Diverse Island Getaway
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Sicily are available with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 3 hours.
What to See and Do: Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a diverse and captivating destination for British holidaymakers. Explore the bustling city of Palermo, with its rich history, vibrant markets, and impressive architecture. Visit the stunning Greek temples in Agrigento, the ancient Roman mosaics in Villa Romana del Casale, and the dramatic Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cefalù, San Vito lo Capo, and the Aeolian Islands, and savour the island’s delicious cuisine, influenced by Greek, Arab, and Spanish flavours.
Bologna: A Food Lover’s Paradise
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Bologna are available with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours.
What to See and Do: Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is a top destination for British tourists who love Italian cuisine. The city is famous for its delicious pasta dishes, such as tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini, as well as its cured meats, cheeses, and balsamic vinegar. Explore the city’s historic centre, with its medieval towers, elegant porticoes, and bustling markets, and visit the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. Don’t miss the beautiful Basilica di San Petronio, the city’s main church, and the impressive Piazza Maggiore.
Sardinia: An Island of Natural Beauty
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Sardinia are available with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What to See and Do: Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, is a paradise for British holidaymakers seeking sun, sea, and unspoiled natural beauty. Discover the island’s stunning beaches, such as Cala Goloritzé, La Pelosa, and Spiaggia del Principe, and explore the rugged coastline by boat or kayak. Visit the ancient Nuragic sites, such as the Su Nuraxi di Barumini and the charming towns of Alghero, Cagliari, and Olbia. Sample the island’s unique cuisine, featuring seafood, roasted meats, and delicious seadas pastry.
Cinque Terre: A Colorful Coastal Gem
How to Get There from the UK: Fly into Pisa International Airport with airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. The flight duration is around 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Pisa, the Cinque Terre can be reached by train or car.
What to See and Do: The Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning destination for British tourists seeking a charming coastal getaway. This collection of five colourful villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) is connected by scenic hiking trails and convenient train service. Explore the villages’ narrow streets, sample the local Ligurian cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Verona: A City of Romance
How to Get There from the UK: Direct flights from London to Verona are available with airlines such as British Airways and EasyJet. The flight duration is around 2 hours.
What to See and Do: Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” is a romantic destination for British holidaymakers. Visit the famous Casa di Giulietta, with its iconic balcony, and the ancient Roman Arena, which hosts a renowned summer opera festival. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the city, and admire the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. Take a day trip to the nearby Valpolicella wine region, famous for its Amarone and Ripasso wines.
With so many diverse and captivating destinations to choose from, it’s no wonder Italy is a favourite holiday spot for British tourists. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, relaxation, or adventure, you’re sure to find it in this beautiful country. Buon Viaggio!
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Florence: the most beautiful city in the world!
Visited and loved them all